Arcadium Lithium’s Fenix Mine in Argentina is the first in the country to release an IRMA report on responsible mining standards. The mine’s overall achievement level is pending final assessment. Initial audit results indicate compliance for at least IRMA 50. The process aims to drive transparency and improve community relations in the mining sector.
Arcadium Lithium’s Fenix Mine in Argentina has achieved a significant milestone by being the first mining operation in the country to publish an Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA) report. This audit evaluates the mine’s performance against the thorough IRMA Standard for Responsible Mining, which is recognized as a benchmark for best practices within the mining sector.
As of now, the Fenix Mine’s overall achievement level remains pending, awaiting the final evaluation of the free, prior, and informed consent as outlined in Chapter 2.2 of the IRMA standards. Auditors from SCS Global Services concluded that further testimonies and extensive interviews would be necessary to thoroughly assess the mine’s compliance with this specific chapter.
These additional evaluations will take place during the upcoming IRMA surveillance audit, scheduled within 12 to 18 months following the initial report’s release. Despite pending final assessments, the audit results indicate that the Fenix Mine meets the standards necessary for at least an IRMA 50 level rating, demonstrating initial compliance with responsible mining practices.
The comprehensive audit of the Fenix Mine commenced on February 15, 2022, when the independent third-party audit was first announced. Arcadium Lithium’s President and Chief Executive Officer, Paul Graves, emphasized the importance of this IRMA process, stating their goals to enhance industry transparency, improve community engagement, and refine operational practices.
Globally, there are 22 industrial-scale mines, including the Fenix Mine, participating in the IRMA independent assessment system. In comparison, Anglo American’s Minas-Rio and Barro Alto mines in Brazil achieved an IRMA 75 rating in February 2024, indicating a high level of compliance with responsible mining practices.
In June 2023, US-based specialty chemicals company Albemarle became the first lithium producer to publish an IRMA report, achieving an IRMA 50 for its operation at Salar de Atacama in Chile. Furthermore, Brazilian steelmaker Gerdau has pledged to pursue IRMA assessments for its iron ore mines located in Minas Gerais.
Chilean mining company SQM also reached an IRMA 75 score for its Salar de Atacama lithium operation in September 2023, highlighting the growing trend of responsible mining initiatives in the region. Aimee Boulanger, the IRMA Executive Director, remarked on the importance of detailed audits, stating that they enable mining companies, communities, and buyers to identify strengths and areas for improvement at specific mining sites.
IRMA’s rigorous standards, which are developed in cooperation with those most affected by mining, are instrumental in mitigating negative impacts and enhancing benefits sharing. As the IRMA Standard continues to gain recognition and implementation worldwide, its audits foster meaningful dialogue between mining companies and local communities, ultimately contributing to the ongoing improvement of responsible mining practices.
In summary, the Fenix Mine’s publication of the IRMA report represents an important step in advancing responsible mining practices in Argentina. While the mine awaits final assessments, the initial audit findings show promise and commitment to transparency and community engagement. As mining operations globally continue to adopt IRMA standards, the potential for enhanced dialogue and reduced conflicts within affected communities is significant.
Original Source: www.mining-technology.com
